Beating the Winter Blues: Strategies for Seasonal Depression
Emotional regulation reduces vulnerability toward unwanted emotions and increases emotional resiliency. When these feelings come up, and they do, we need something. We need to feel more in control.
Feeling the weight of the post-holiday slump? You're definitely not alone. In this episode of 'The Sober Therapist SoberSoul Recovery Podcast', Lynn Matti, a seasoned clinical mental health therapist, tackles the often-overwhelming January blues and seasonal depression. Instead of the usual tips, Lynn dives deep into practical, professionally-tested tools to help you start feeling better right away. One standout method she discusses is emotional regulation, which helps reduce vulnerability to negative emotions and boosts emotional resilience.
Lynn introduces Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), initially designed for those with borderline personality disorder but beneficial for anyone feeling overwhelmed. Another powerful tool she highlights is 'opposite action', a technique that encourages taking control of your emotions when they don't align with reality. This episode isn't just about identifying negative thoughts; it's about replacing them with more productive actions. Lynn also shares a simple yet effective skill for moments of emotional dysregulation: S.T.O.P.
- Stop, Take a breath, Observe your surroundings and feelings, and Proceed mindfully. Tune in to discover these actionable strategies and start building a more resilient, sober life. Whether you're struggling with seasonal depression or just looking for ways to boost your emotional well-being, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.